Decatur Township School for Excellence

Cell Phone Policy

New Personal Wireless Communication Device Policy

In accordance with IC 20-26-5-40.7, students are prohibited from using personal wireless communication devices during regular school hours. This policy aims to enhance the learning environment and minimize distractions.

Definition of Personal Wireless Communication Devices

A "personal wireless communication device" includes any portable wireless device capable of providing voice, messaging, or other data communication between two or more parties. This definition encompasses:

Cellular telephones

Smart watches

Tablet computers

Laptop computers

Gaming devices

Permitted Devices for Educational Purposes

We acknowledge that school-provided iPads are allowable wireless communication devices for educational purposes during instructional time at school. These devices are integrated into our curriculum and support our students' learning.

Policy Details

Please be aware of the following key points regarding the use of personal wireless communication devices:

The MSD of Decatur Township is not responsible or financially liable for lost or stolen personal wireless communication devices brought to school.

The use of personal wireless communication devices, such as cell phones, personal laptops or tablets, smart watches, or gaming devices, is not allowed during instructional time except in the following circumstances:

A teacher may authorize a student to use a wireless communication device for educational purposes during instructional time.

Students are permitted to use a wireless communication device in the event of an emergency or to manage the student’s health care.

A student can use a wireless communication device during instructional time if a student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) or a plan developed under Section 504 of the federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 794) includes the use of such a device.

Personal devices are permitted before school, during established passing periods, lunch, and after school as communicated by your school’s principal.

To help navigate this new law and prepare for a successful 2024-2025 school year, we will implement the following process to support students and bring awareness to violations that may occur in a day:

1st violation- This is a warning and students are asked to put the device away.

2nd violation- The student is sent to the office and will be asked to sign a personal device contract.  A guardian will be notified of the violation.

3rd violation- The student will relinquish the phone in the office until the end of the school day.

*Continuous violation of this law may result in further disciplinary action.

We appreciate your cooperation and support in adhering to this policy. Our goal is to create a focused and engaging learning environment for all students. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact the school administration.

Attendance Policy

3 unexcused days = automated skyward letter and phone call from school
5 unexcused days = automated skyward letter and a required attendance conference with an attendance success plan.
8 unexcused days = automated skyward letter and phone call from administration
10 unexcused days = a letter from the superintendent's office and a DCS report
15 unexcused days = home visit
20 unexcused days = another DCS report, another letter from the superintendent's office and a meeting with the district attendance officer. 

***Continued absences after 20, will result in a referral to the prosecutors office***